The Bharatiya Janata Party is likely to publish its list of candidates for the upcoming Assam assembly polls in February, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said on Tuesday. His statement comes as political activity intensifies in the state ahead of elections expected later this year.
Speaking to reporters, Himanta said the BJP has already begun internal consultations and organisational preparations. According to him, the party aims to finalise candidates well in advance to ensure smooth coordination and focused campaigning.
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Early preparation signals BJP’s poll strategy
Himanta Biswa Sarma said the BJP believes in early planning rather than last-minute decisions. Therefore, the party intends to announce its candidate list for the Assam assembly polls by February.
He explained that early declaration helps candidates engage with voters more effectively. Moreover, it allows the party to address local issues constituency by constituency.
Party sources said district-level feedback, performance reviews of sitting MLAs, and winnability assessments are currently underway. As a result, the leadership aims to field candidates who enjoy strong grassroots support.
Consultation process within the party
The Chief Minister noted that the BJP follows a structured consultation process before finalising candidates. This includes inputs from local leaders, district committees, and state-level observers.
In addition, the party seeks feedback from allied organisations and workers on the ground. Himanta said this approach helps the leadership understand public sentiment more accurately.
He also stressed that merit and performance will remain key criteria. Sitting legislators, he said, will face evaluation based on their work and public connect.
Focus on governance record
As the Assam assembly polls approach, the BJP plans to campaign heavily on its governance record. Himanta highlighted improvements in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and law and order under the current government.
He said voters now expect accountability and visible development. Therefore, the party wants candidates who can effectively communicate achievements at the grassroots level.
According to BJP leaders, early announcement of candidates will help them highlight government schemes and policy outcomes more systematically.
Managing internal expectations
Himanta acknowledged that ticket distribution often creates expectations within the party. However, he said the BJP would manage the process transparently.
He urged party workers to place collective interest above individual ambitions. According to him, unity remains essential for electoral success.
The Chief Minister added that those who do not receive tickets will still play important organisational roles during the Assam assembly polls.
Opposition reaction and political context
Opposition parties have taken note of the BJP’s early signals. Congress leaders said early announcements do not guarantee electoral success and accused the ruling party of overconfidence.
However, BJP leaders dismissed these remarks. They argued that preparation reflects seriousness, not arrogance.
Political analysts believe early candidate declaration could give the BJP a tactical advantage. It allows more time for constituency-level outreach and damage control where required.
Importance of February timeline
February holds significance as it provides a clear run-up to the election schedule. By announcing candidates during this period, the BJP hopes to avoid confusion and internal competition closer to polling dates.
Himanta said the party wants to ensure that campaign messaging remains consistent and disciplined. Early clarity, he added, strengthens booth-level coordination.
Party insiders revealed that several rounds of screening meetings are expected before the final list is approved by the central leadership.
Emphasis on youth and social representation
The Chief Minister also hinted that the BJP may introduce new faces during the Assam assembly polls. He said the party remains open to giving opportunities to young leaders and first-time candidates.
At the same time, social balance and regional representation will guide ticket allocation. According to Himanta, inclusive representation strengthens democracy and governance.
He added that the party would consider women candidates and leaders from diverse backgrounds to reflect Assam’s social fabric.
Campaign roadmap taking shape
With the candidate list likely in February, the BJP’s campaign roadmap is gradually taking shape. Party leaders plan to roll out constituency-specific agendas and targeted outreach programmes.
Himanta said development, security, and cultural identity will remain core themes. He also indicated that central leaders may increase visits to Assam once candidates are finalised.
The BJP leadership believes that clear planning and disciplined execution will define the upcoming campaign.
What lies ahead
As Assam moves closer to assembly elections, political momentum continues to build. The BJP’s indication of a February timeline for releasing its candidate list signals an early and organised start.
Whether this strategy pays off will depend on public response and opposition mobilisation. For now, Himanta Biswa Sarma’s statement has set the tone for an election season that promises intense political engagement across the state.
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